Chapter 1: The Design Process

Clothing construction refers to the stitching of garments and all the sewing techniques involved in this process.

If unsuitable fabric is chosen for a style, then the design may not work.

Start by understanding the variety, quality, handle, drape, weight, and weave of each fabric, and how each one behaves when applied to the design.

Sketching is the first part of the design process.

Correctly drafted patterns include a grainline drawn on each pattern piece.

Placing the grainline in different directions can also change the look of the design.

Notions can be buttons, snaps, zippers, thread, tape, elastic, ribbon, piping, interfacing or a lace trim.

Functional design refers to the performance of the garment on the body for the purpose for which it is made.

Structural design relates to all seam lines that are stitched to hold the garment together.

Decorative design refers to the decorative additions to the fabric surface.

Decorative design can sometimes ultimately be what attracts a customer to a design, it is a special detail that distinguishes one garment from another.